A client has been hospitalized for multiple sclerosis exacerbation and is being given high dose IV glucocorticoid steroid medications. The prescriber places new orders for weight based sliding scale insulin. The patient asks why they need insulin. Are they now diabetic? What is the nurse's best response?
Insulin is commonly given to all hospitalized clients.
You likely developed diabetes prior to hospitalization, but are just now being diagnosed.
You have developed type 1 diabetes and will need insulin for the rest of your life.
Glucocorticoid steroid medications can cause temporary hyperglycemia.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect because insulin is not commonly given to all hospitalized clients. Insulin is a hormone that lowers blood sugar levels in the body. It is only given to clients who have diabetes or other conditions that cause high blood sugar, such as pancreatitis, sepsis, or steroid therapy. The nurse should explain the indication and purpose of insulin to the client and not make false or misleading statements.
Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because the client did not likely develop diabetes prior to hospitalization, but are just now being diagnosed. Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body either does not produce enough insulin or does not use it properly, resulting in high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can be diagnosed by measuring the blood sugar levels, the hemoglobin A1c levels, or the oral glucose tolerance test. The nurse should not assume or imply that the client has diabetes without proper testing and confirmation.
Choice C reason: This choice is incorrect because the client did not develop type 1 diabetes and will not need insulin for the rest of their life. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to a complete lack of insulin. Type 1 diabetes usually develops in childhood or adolescence, and requires lifelong insulin therapy. The nurse should not diagnose or predict the client's condition without evidence or authority.
Choice D reason: This choice is correct because glucocorticoid steroid medications can cause temporary hyperglycemia. Glucocorticoids are anti-inflammatory drugs that suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. They are used to treat conditions such as multiple sclerosis, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and allergic reactions. However, they can also increase the blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to produce more glucose and reducing the sensitivity of the cells to insulin. The nurse should inform the client that the insulin is needed to control the blood sugar levels while they are on steroid therapy, and that the insulin dose may be adjusted or discontinued when the steroids are tapered or stopped.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["1"]
Explanation
To determine the number of tablets the nurse should administer for each dose, we can use the following calculation:
75 mg/day ÷ 2 doses = 37.5 mg/dose
Since 37.5 mg tablets are available, the nurse should administer 1 tablet with each dose.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is incorrect because fentanyl 25 mcg/hr transdermal patch is a common and appropriate dose for chronic pain management. Fentanyl is a potent opioid analgesic that delivers a steady amount of medication through the skin over 72 hours.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect because meloxicam 15 mg PO daily is a standard and safe dose for treating inflammation and pain caused by arthritis. Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in inflammation.
Choice C reason: This is correct because regular insulin 8 units subcutaneous before meals is a vague and potentially dangerous prescription. Regular insulin is a short-acting insulin that lowers blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into the cells. The dose of insulin should be individualized based on the client's blood glucose level, carbohydrate intake, and activity level. The nurse should contact the provider for clarification on how to adjust the dose according to the client's needs.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect because docusate sodium 200 mg PO at bedtime is a usual and effective dose for preventing constipation. Docusate sodium is a stool softener that works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making it easier to pass.
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